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Amendments to GTAWU Constitution passed by overwhelming vote

Last Updated on Thursday, 16 May 2013 13:43
Thursday, 16 May 2013 13:40

Some 35 Amendments to the Grenada Technical and Allied Workers’ Union Constitution was voted on over the last two (2) days in a Union wide vote in which the Amendments were overwhelming passed by those casting their ballot. A total of 677 workers casted their ballots; 594 workers voted in support of the amendments while eighty-two (82) voted against and one (1) vote was spoilt.

Earlier the Union had set up a Constitutional Committee two (2) years ago which formulated those changes after a series of consultations and submitted them to the General Council which approved them. The proposed amendments which were then considered by the Triennial National Conference (the highest decision making body of the Union) were then ratified over the last two (2) days by a Union wide ballot. Balloting also took place in Carriacou and Petit Martinique.

The amendments to the Union’s Constitution seek to deepen the democratic process within the Union and to strengthen its participatory democracy. The amendments are to be registered with the Register of Trade Unions after which there shall form an integral part of the Constitution of the Grenada Technical and Allied Workers’ Union.

Amongst the most significant changes are amendments which give continued membership to a worker who may have been dismissed or suspended and the issue is being grieved by the Union while awaiting its outcome. It would also positively affect workers in the construction sector who would be on lay-off for six (6) months between jobs. Such workers would continue to enjoy membership even if they fall in arrears of union dues. The amendments also give guide to the appointment and removal of Shop Stewards an item the Constitution was silent on in the past.

There were also some new guidelines on campaigning during the elections of officers aimed at raising campaigning standards which were approved by the amendments to the Constitution.